Near field (NF) ranges offer a convenient alternative to compact antenna test ranges (CATR) and anechoic far field ranges for the measurement of phased arrays [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9]. NF sites allow for hologram analysis, low sidelobes characterization, and do not require a rotating pedestal capable of bearing the weight of the phased array. The primary objective of the NF2FF sourceforge project is to provide the phased array community with an open-source MATLAB alternative to proprietary NF measurement software. The code features planar near field to far field transforms with rectangular waveguide probe correction. The secondary objective of the project is to implement various functions for phased array hologram analysis. Phased array holograms allow for faulty element localization [5] and for measurement of active element amplitude and phase excitation, in transmit (Tx) as well as in receive (Rx) mode, which allows for insight in the difference between achieved and desired Tx and Rx array factor. In addition, active element Tx and Rx root mean square (RMS) amplitude and phase error can be measured which allows for insight in beam pointing error and side lobe level increase, and gain reduction, while scanning [10].

Hologram analysis can also be used to study near field communication (NFC) antennas.